In the heart of downtown Auburn, Indiana, the James Cultural Plaza stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design and the transformative potential of public spaces. Commissioned by the James Foundation and designed by landscape architecture firm Jones Petrie Rafinski, the plaza invites residents and visitors alike to immerse themselves in a space that seamlessly blends art and history.
The idea was to create a flexible event and gathering space that could serve as a cruise-in during private and large community events throughout the year. This space would celebrate the history and culture of the Auburn community while also functioning as a major gateway for visitors coming into the city. The design process began with community engagement, incorporating input from the James Cultural Foundation and local residents on how the space could best serve Auburn.

 
Every element of the plaza's infrastructure - from the intricately designed paver pattern to the seating walls - reflects Auburn's rich automotive heritage. Known for its early 20th-century vehicles, production of the Auburn Cord Duesenberg (ACD) is a foundational piece of the city's culture. Built in the 1920s and 1930s, ACD automobiles reflect the design principles of the Art Deco Movement from the same era. This unique history became a cornerstone of the design approach, with the automobiles' Art Deco style inspiring many of the plaza's elements. One of the most striking features is the use of diverse shapes and profiles throughout the space - blending sleek, modern lines with meticulous detailing.
This design detail is seen in the custom design of backlit, stainless-steel inserts incorporated into the overhead structures and railings throughout the plaza. These patterns - developed using symmetry, straight lines, and circles - were inspired by the tires and grills of ACD automobiles. Positioned near the seating areas, the inserts are illuminated with a variety of colors at night, adding visual interest and ambiance.
Central to the plaza's design is a performance stage located in the northwest corner, highlighted by an overhead canopy. This focal point not only provides a platform for artistic expression but also serves as a symbolic nexus where community members can gather to celebrate culture and creativity. The design of the stage and canopy was inspired by the curvilinear forms of the ACD automobile, as the arching roof mirrors the distinctive curvature of the automobiles' prominent wheel well design. Designing this barrel-vaulted standing seam roof was a challenge that required close communication with the installer to custom fabricate the metal panels. Diverse shapes are also found along the plaza's perimeter seatwalls in the custom skateboard deterrents, which were inspired by The "Flying Lady" hood ornament found on the Auburn Super Charger in the 1930s.
The emphasis on hardscape design serves as a defining element of its character and functionality. Unilock Eco Priora?,,? permeable pavers were utilized to collect, infiltrate, and store water onsite - reducing the risk of flooding and erosion. This environmentally friendly approach not only minimizes the plaza's ecological footprint but also enhances its resilience in the face of changing weather patterns. The permeable pavers - combined with concrete pathways and the paving manufacturer's Hollandstone?,,? unit pavers - form an elaborate pattern that defines spaces, creates an overarching identity, and enhances the plaza's aesthetic appeal. Precast concrete walls, pedestrian-scale lighting, and a prominent sculptural piece further contribute to creating an immersive experience for visitors.
Designing the planter walls to curve while also continuously changing elevation was challenging. The designers meticulously planned these elements and collaborated closely with the precast concrete manufacturer to successfully create custom forms. These planters, located throughout the plaza, house a variety of low-maintenance vegetation to provide four seasons of interest. Perennials such as Stella de Oro Daylilies (Hemerocallis 'Stella de Oro'), Walker's Low Catmint (Nepeta x faassenii), and Shasta Daisies (Leucanthemum x superbum) offer long bloom times from spring through late summer, while ornamental grasses and Columnar Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata') trees provide interesting forms and structure during winter. Additionally, shrubs like Nearly Wild Roses (Rosa x 'Nearly Wild'), Gold Flame Spirea (Spiraea japonica 'Goldflame'), and Oakleaf Hydrangeas (Hydrangea quercifolia) offer pops of color throughout the space.
Several functional requirements were prioritized during the design process. Flexibility was a key aspect, with the plaza designed to accommodate a variety of uses and groups. This versatility was essential for ensuring the space could be used year-round. Accessibility was another priority, with special attention given to grading the plaza and sidewalks to ensure they were flush and free of tripping hazards. Durability and maintenance considerations also played a significant role, with materials selected for their longevity and low upkeep requirements to keep the plaza in good condition for
many years.
Since opening to the public in 2016, James Cultural Plaza has become a testament to the meticulous planning and dedicated efforts of all parties involved. The main objective was achieved: to transform a long-vacant lot into a vibrant, multifunctional space that would serve as a community hub for years to come.